NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement

Article 44
Injury Grievance

Section 4(b)
Neutral Physician

(b)

In cases in which the player alleges that he suffered a closed head injury or concussion with resulting cognitive deficit, somatic symptoms and/or other concussion symptoms, the player must present himself for cognitive functioning testing and/or other appropriate testing and examination by a neutral neuropsychologist in either the city nearest the player’s residence or the Club city. Absent medical limitations, the unavailability of the neuropsychologist or the unavailability of medical records, such testing and examination must occur within thirty (30) days from the date of the filing of the grievance. The neutral neuropsychologist will be provided with all medical records of closed head trauma and/or concussions including baseline testing, within the possession of Club and player. All other requirements and limitations set forth in this Article regarding the neutral physician process shall apply to such testing and examination except that if a neutral neuropsychologist’s examination spans multiple days, it will be considered one office visit. The neutral neuropsychologist must prepare and submit a detailed report regarding his examination and the player’s cognitive functioning and other symptoms, if any, of concussion or closed head injury affecting the player’s ability to return to play at the date of the examination. If the neutral neuropsychologist in his sole discretion determines that the player should be examined by another physician of appropriate specialization in order to complete his neutral physician report, the neuropsychologist shall have the authority to refer such player for such additional examination. In such circumstances, the report of the neutral neuropsychologist shall be designated as the neutral physician report and may incorporate any findings or opinion of the referral doctor.